AV-TEST evaluates 15 Windows 11 security suites against 20,000 malware threats

AV-TEST, an independent IT security testing organization, has published its latest evaluation of 15 consumer security suites for Windows 11. The two-month study, conducted between March and April 2025, assessed software from vendors including Bitdefender, Norton, Kaspersky, and Microsoft, among others. Each product underwent rigorous testing involving nearly 20,000 malware samples, including zero-day threats and established Trojans, alongside a benchmark for system performance and usability.

Testing methodology followed the Anti-Malware Testing Standards Organization (AMTSO) framework to ensure objectivity. Researchers measured performance across three categories: protection, performance impact, and usability. Each category was worth six points, resulting in a maximum potential score of 18. Products achieving at least 17.5 points were categorized as "Top Products."

Results indicate that the majority of tested suites provide strong protection. Thirteen of the 15 products achieved a 100% detection rate during the testing period, earning full points in the protection category. Performance metrics focused on how these applications impact system resources during common tasks, such as website browsing, software downloads, and file installations, ensuring that security measures do not cause significant system degradation.

The findings highlight a competitive landscape in Windows security, where 10 of the 15 tested solutions attained the maximum possible score. While most software proved effective, minor variances were observed; for instance, EnigmaSoft’s Spyhunter saw a slight point reduction due to detection limitations. These benchmark tests serve as a resource for consumers evaluating the efficacy of security software on current Windows operating systems.